Feasibility Study of a Rooftop Solar System on ULAB Permanent Campus Building

In the context of the increasing integration of renewable energy into existing grids, rooftop solar system (RSS) is an exciting notion. It is becoming more and more popular in a densely populated nation like Bangladesh since it does not require a large open space like typical PV plants. However, a comprehensive feasibility analysis of the setting is required prior to installing grid-connected RSS at a given location. In order to do this, this paper provides a comprehensive method for evaluating the feasibility of a grid connected RSS system taking performance, economic aspect, losses, and environmental aspect into account. With a test RSS of 42 kW capacity, the proposed methodology is implemented in buildings A and B of the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) campus. All simulations are performed in the HelioScope software environment. First, a test RSS system with appropriate mechanical and electrical specifications is developed for the rooftop. Following that, a thorough assessment analysis is conducted on the test system. The findings indicate that the planned RSS offers a 77.2% performance ratio with a marginal levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of $0.0216 and a payback period of about 4 years. Moreover, with a minimal shading loss, the proposed RSS system minimizes CO2 emission by 24 tons per year. The installation of grid-connected RSS is therefore a very viable option for the chosen case scenario, taking into account all the findings. This research will be a useful guide for proper feasibility assessment of future installations of grid connected RSS in Bangladesh.